Description
Saag Chana (Curried Chickpeas and Spinach)
Saag Chana is a comforting Indian dish combining tender chickpeas with nutrient-rich spinach in a flavorful, spiced gravy. Known as a classic North Indian curry, it’s both vegan and gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome meal. Traditionally enjoyed with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice, this dish brings together simple ingredients and vibrant spices for an irresistible experience.
3 cups cooked chickpeas
12 oz spinach
1 cup tomatoes, chopped
½ cup onion, chopped
2 green chili or jalapeno
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp coriander powder
¼ tsp red chili powder
½ tsp garam masala powder
¼ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garlic, grated
1 tsp ginger, grated
2 tbsp oil
1 tsp salt
½ cup water
2 tbsp cashew cream (optional)
Directions:
1. Cook onion, garlic, ginger, and chili in oil until translucent.
2. Add spices and cook briefly.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted; blend into a paste.
4. Combine cooked chickpeas, tomato, and spinach sauce; simmer.
Prep Time: 50 mins
Kcal: 216
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft. Add the grated garlic, ginger, and chopped green chili. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add all the ground spices: turmeric, cumin, coriander, red chili powder, and salt. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and prevent burning.
3. Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until each batch wilts down. This should take 3-4 minutes total.
4. Remove the spinach mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer to a blender and blend into a smooth, green paste. For a richer sauce, add 2 tbsp of cashew cream to the blender.
5. Return the empty pan to medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, mashing them with the back of a spoon until they break down into a saucy consistency.
6. Add the cooked chickpeas and the blended spinach sauce to the pan. Pour in ½ cup of water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring the curry to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in garam masala just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Saag Chana hot, garnished with a drizzle of cream or a squeeze of lemon. It pairs perfectly with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice for a simple meal. For a more indulgent experience, serve with warm, buttery naan, garlic naan, or flaky parathas. A side of cooling cucumber raita or a simple onion salad helps balance the spices.
How-to Summary
Sauté onions, ginger, garlic, and chili. Toast the spices briefly. Wilt spinach and blend into a sauce. Cook down tomatoes, then combine with chickpeas and the spinach sauce. Simmer until flavorful and serve with rice or bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chickpeas? Yes, canned chickpeas are a great time-saver. Rinse and drain one 15-oz can to substitute for the 3 cups cooked.
How can I make it creamier without dairy? The optional cashew cream is perfect for this. Alternatively, blend in 2-3 tbsp of raw cashews or coconut milk with the spinach.
Can I use frozen spinach? Absolutely. Thaw and thoroughly squeeze out excess water from 10 oz of frozen spinach before adding it to the pan in step 3.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the gravy has thickened.
Is this dish spicy? The heat level is adjustable. Remove seeds from the green chilies for less heat, or increase the red chili powder for more. Garam masala adds warmth, not heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding dry spices to very hot oil, as they can burn in seconds, becoming bitter. Do not skip cooking the tomatoes thoroughly; this step builds the base of the gravy. Ensure you simmer the combined curry for at least 15 minutes; rushing this step means the chickpeas won’t absorb the flavors. Finally, do not over-blend the spinach if you prefer a textured sauce; pulse a few times instead.
Conclusion
Saag Chana is a quintessential, nourishing curry that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary depth of flavor. Its versatility as a vegan, gluten-free staple makes it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently achieve a restaurant-quality dish that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. Enjoy the process of making this healthy classic.